Summary: Sakura Finetek Europe and MEDIPATH partnered to enhance cancer diagnostics in France by deploying fully-automated embedding systems in key pathology centers.
Takeaways:
- Automated Efficiency: MEDIPATH deployed four Tissue-Tek AutoTEC a120 systems across multiple pathology centers, enabling fully automated cassette embedding with a maximum throughput of 120 cassettes per hour.
- Improved Patient Care: The advanced system enhances sample traceability, diagnostic accuracy, and workflow standardization, meeting the growing demand for timely and quality cancer diagnostics.
- Strategic Partnership: Sakura Finetek supported MEDIPATH with customized workflow analyses, technician training, and lean management practices to optimize the implementation and utilization of the automated systems.
Sakura Finetek Europe and MEDIPATH, a group of independent French pathologists, announced a collaboration aimed at enhancing cancer diagnostics and ultimately improving patient therapeutic management.
Fully Automated Embedding System for Pathologists
As part of this initiative, MEDIPATH deployed four of Sakura’s Tissue-Tek AutoTEC a120s for automated embedding in their pathology centers in Fréjus, Paris, Eguilles (Aix-en-Provence) and Montpellier. This decision is part of an ongoing commitment to improving the quality of care provided to patients and in response to the significant increase in cancer cases over the last years, the companies say.
The Tissue-Tek AutoTEC a120 from Sakura is a fully automated embedding system. By combining this instrument with Tissue-Tek Paraform embedding cassettes and gels, pathology centers have a complete system for automating cassette embedding, with a maximum throughput of 120 cassettes per hour, according to the company. The machine’s consistent handling allows for optimal repeatability. Samples do not leave their original cassette, meaning they retain their case number to ensure identity vigilance. This also allows for quicker comprehensive sample imaging and traceability throughout the embedding process.
Sample pre-analytical treatment, from collection to slide preparation, is a complex process crucial for diagnostic accuracy. Implementing these innovative instruments will allow MEDIPATH to standardize embedding while ensuring timely report delivery in line with its quality charter.
“MEDIPATH is a major player in cancer screening in France, processing over 1.5 million cases each year, including 140,000 cancer diagnoses, with these numbers steadily increasing,” says Olivier Vire, president of MEDIPATH. “We are convinced that this technological advancement will not only strengthen our commitment to medical excellence but will also meet the growing expectations of our patients for quality care and timely results.”
Each pathology center has unique goals. Sakura’s technology, employees, expertise, and services enable each client to achieve these optimally.
“As part of our Bridge service offering, our implementation specialists worked closely with MEDIPATH’s technical teams to analyse existing workflows, implement lean management practices, train technicians, and maximise system utilisation,” says Mateo Iglesias, VP of marketing, strategy, and innovation at Sakura Finetek Europe.
Photo: Sakura Finetek Europe
